Millboard Composite Decking FAQs

Millboard composite decking FAQs. Our decking boards are non-porous, which results in high resistance to algae growth, weathering & provides excellent anti-slip benefits. All of our products, which includes matching profiles and fascias; are scratch and stain resistant, making it a perfect choice for architects when looking for an innovative, beautiful alternative to timber decking.

Millboard composite decking is extremely versatile and can be used in practically every outdoor space to enhance decks, balconies, roof gardens, boardwalks, bridges, pontoons, seating, steps, planters and more.

Do I need to seal Millboard?

No, all Millboard composite decking is surface-sealed in the factory to ensure they arrive in premium condition. In the first few weeks of use, rainwater will sit on the surface in globules, but don’t worry – this is normal and will stop once the temporary surface seal breaks down.

Can Millboard be cut just like wood?

Millboard can be cut with standard saw blades, although we recommend a carbon-tipped, multi-purpose chop saw. As the formed end of the board is lost when cut, these can be placed in less visual areas against a wall or edging profile. Matching Touch-up Coating for exposed ends is available to buy separately.

What fixings should be used to fit Millboard?

Following extensive trials, we recommend and supply Durafix® stainless steel screws, designed specifically for Millboard. There’s no need to pre-drill or countersink Millboard, and the unique Lastane® material self-heals, leaving only a virtually indistinguishable mark on the surface.

What sort of spans should I use between Joists?

400mm centres for residential applications, 300mm centres for commercial and public realm applications. Millboard decking will cantilever over the end of a joist by a maximum of 50mm.

Can you screw fix it like you can with wood?

Yes, it will fix down with screws just like wood will, but without the possibility of splitting. We only Warrant the use of our Millboard ‘Durafix’ screws as these are the only screw that give a satisfactory hidden ‘Lost Head’ effect.

Can you use normal wood working tools?

Absolutely, no specialist wood working equipment is needed, you can even saw it by hand. As with all products that create dust when working with them we recommend, dust bags on saws and dust masks to be used in the control of dust. Gloves should also be worn.

Can the Millboard system be used on a flat roof?

Yes is the easy answer, determine what method of construction has been used for solid wood or concrete slab roofs with a mineral finish. Use our ring supports or joist shoes to position the joists where slope of roof is gentle enough to not be a concern. For a single ply membrane roof use our adjustable self-levelling head pedestal systems to spread the load preventing any point loading, both products will raise the joists above any standing water, prolonging their life while also acting to reduce sound transfer. Both products encourage the free flow of water on the roof membrane.

Will it fade over time?

Millboard composite decking has a very high resistance to fading, this is because it contains no wood fibres which typically fade and leave tannins.

Can I butt joint board ends tight to the next decking board?

You can do because the expansion and contraction is minimal, the butt joints should be positioned in conjunction with recommendations contained in the installation guide. A maximum of 2 butt joints before a gap of 2-3mm is desired.

Can you use it for load bearing applications (i.e. structural)?

It is not recommended to use Millboard in structural applications; Millboard decking would need to be fixed to a structural frame, either made of timber or ‘Plas-Pro’ recycled plastic.

Can you paint / stain it?

No, it is not needed! Millboard composite decking is designed as an ultra-low maintenance product and paints and stains will not adhere permanently to the surface of the Millboard in most cases. Clients choose the colour they desire based on the knowledge they won’t have to coat it to keep its colour.

Can you bend it?

Millboard composite decking boards won’t bend across their width, but curves can be created by using the flexible edging profiles and fascias.

How does the price compare to softwood?

Initially, it is more expensive than softwood decking, but similar in price to a high quality hardwood. What you must remember is that the subframe material and installation are comparable to traditional decking so the labour cost remains similar. Also due to the reduced maintenance requirement, the life cycle cost of Millboard composite decking is considerably less than that of softwood decking. It is a much superior quality material to softwood and it is uniform, whereas softwood decking may be warped, contains knots and is inconsistent in density. It’s the perfect alternative decking product.

What material is used for the sub structure?

The cheapest option (applicable to free draining, relatively dry conditions only) is to use treated softwood. The softwood sub structure will obviously decay over time, and may not last as long as Millboard could do. Alternatively we also supply our non-rotting Plas-Pro recycled plastic sub structure system, which is far superior and useful in damp conditions or areas with low air circulation.

Does it become slippery when wet?

Millboard decking has achieved the highest accreditation for anti-slip composite decking in the world! As it is resistant to hosting algae growth and has a textured ‘Lastane’ surface material it is naturally low-slip.

How easy is it to clean?

Once the decking has been installed and after the initial ‘after installation’ clean down there will be very little maintenance required. As the surface is non porous – dirt, food and drink spillages do not become absorbed, unlike timber. The simplest way to clean the deck itself if it is really needed is to use soapy water and a brush. It can be cleaned down with a power washer, on low power, if required but this should never really be needed

Fire Safety

All types of Millboard composite decking has been tested by BBA, certificate 17/5409 for use as Decking Boards and certification and testing has been to this end.

Millboard has been tested to BS EN ISO 13501-1:2007+A1:2009 and has a Bfl-S1 reaction to fire classification (fire test for flooring). Millboard is not recommended for use as cladding on buildings 18m (6 storeys) or above, and for other cladding use, it should be subject to Building Regulations to check suitability, use and proximity.

A nationwide network of Approved Installers of Millboard Composite Decking are available – . Chosen for their professionalism and high quality, you should always follow normal precautions before entering into a contract with a third party, especially if a deposit payment is required.

For any other technical, installation or care questions, go to our contact page, call our technical team on 024 7643 9943, or email us at enquiries@millboard.co.uk